Hidden Hazard in Cosmetic Products: Heavy Metals

Cosmetics, which are used to have a beautiful, healthy, well-groomed and smooth skin, increase the self-confidence of all of us and affect our physical and mental well-being positively.

According to a study conducted in the United States, women use 168 different chemicals every day with 12 different cosmetic products.

We do not yet know clearly what many cosmetic materials we use include what they contain, as well as what can occur in our bodies after long-term use of these unfamiliar substances.

One of these dangers is heavy metal.

Especially cosmetics such as nail polish, lipstick, mascara, eye shadow, foundation, hair dye have a greater risk for heavy metal. In this respect, cosmetics with brighter, silvery and vivid colors are included in the cosmetic product group which must be checked for heavy metal risk.

Heavy metals in cosmetic products, especially, used to give color and shine raw materials and dyes used. Using these products 3-4 times a day can cause some accumulation after many years.

The body can tolerate heavy metals at certain levels. However, heavy metal accumulation may occur in the body due to excessive intake. This can damage cells and eventually lead to premature aging, cancer, reproductive and developmental disorders. May cause liver, kidney and dysfunction.

The Guide to Heavy Metal Impurities in Cosmetic Products defines which heavy metals should not be present in cosmetic products and their limits.

According to this guideline, heavy metals which should be taken into consideration as a priority in the prevention of adverse health effects in cosmetic products; lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury and antimony.

The limit values ​​for cosmetic products in heavy metals are as follows:

Lead: 20 ppm, Arsenic: 5 ppm, Cadmium: 5 ppm, Mercury 1 ppm, Antimony 10 ppm.

The acceptable limit values ​​for toothpastes are lower:

Lead: 1 ppm, Arsenic: 0.5 ppm, Cadmium: 0.1 ppm, Mercury 0.2 ppm, Antimony: 0.5 ppm.

Consumers should pay attention to the label information when buying the product and should be careful to store the recommended conditions. We should also prefer the organic ones of cosmetic products. Cleaning and frequency of use must be paid attention.